Ben’s the BWF’s apprentice of the year

A Rugby College joinery apprentice is celebrating after being named the British Woodworking Federation’s Apprentice of the Year at a ceremony in London.

Ben James, 20, from Daventry, has worked at Tompkins Joinery for four years, starting as a work experience student before going on to join as an apprentice. He has progressed from a Level 2 apprenticeship to a Level 3 apprenticeship - he currently studies one day a week at Rugby College, with the rest of his time spent working for his employer.

Ben has already completed a few high profile projects of his own, including the joinery for Dallas Burston Polo Club, the prestigious polo ground based in Southam, Warwickshire.

Ben attended the awards ceremony in London with his family and said, “When I heard my name read out it was a shock, but I was really happy. It was great to be nominated by my employers as it shows they have faith in your ability.”

Warwickshire College Group offers apprenticeships in a wide range of subjects. For more information go to www.warwickshire.ac.uk/apprenticeships call 0300 456 0049.

To find out more about apprenticeships in Warwickshire and if they could be right for your business  visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/getanapprentice